How to Plan a Summer Vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona

If you plan a summer vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona you will have plenty to do in the city and surrounding communities. Scottsdale has a population of over 200,000 and is about 20 miles from the state capital of Phoenix. The great outdoors, hiking, amusement parks, shopping, performing arts and museums all exist in Scottsdale.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide your mode of transportation to Scottsdale. The Scottsdale airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International airport allow for many different air travel options. A round-trip from Chicago Midway would cost approximately $350 per person. If you are close enough, car travel is always a good option to save money on car rental and other fees.

2. Select clothes appropriate for your location. Some restaurants and clubs do not allow jeans and tennis shoes. A pair of khakis and casual shoes will usually work. If you are a shopper, leave room to bring back souvenirs. Some extreme travelers bring old undergarments and sleepwear that will be thrown away before returning.

3. Research what you would like to see and do. You can venture on your own or select a travel package. Sonora Desert Adventures are family friendly excursions that include jeep tours, river rafting and horseback riding while exploring the desert. Shopping options include the Biltmore Fashion Park, The Borgata, which is composed of specialty shops and restaurants, and The Desert Ridge Marketplace.

4. Reserving an accommodation to stay is very easy. The Scottsdale Visitor’s and Conventions Bureau’s Web site lets you search for hotels, resorts, Bed & Breakfasts', RV parks and short term vacation rentals. You can search for rates, descriptions and locations right on the site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare your home to be empty, but appear occupied. Put your stereo or radio on a timer. If it sounds like someone is in the house, buglers will stay away. A car in the driveway will also give the appearance that someone is home. Stop your mail and newspaper and have your neighbor or friend walk or stop by occasionally.
• You can get free admission to Turf Paradise thoroughbred horse racing by visiting the coupon section of the Scottsdale Visitors and convention Bureau Web site.
• Windwalker expeditions offer archeology and photography tours of the surrounding desert community. You will learn to dredge for gold and you can keep what you find at an historical goldmine at the base of the Bradshaw Mountains.